WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate confirmed a soft-spoken physician as President Joe Biden's surgeon general Tuesday. While Dr. Vivek Murthy says ending the coronavirus pandemic is his top priority, he's also raised concerns over a relapsing opioid overdose crisis.

The vote on Murthy was 57-43, giving him bipartisan support. Biden's coronavirus response can already count on plenty of star players, but Murthy has a particular niche. As a successful author he's addressed issues of loneliness and isolation that have been exacerbated by the pandemic.

For Murthy, this will be his second tour as America's doctor, having previously served under former President Barack Obama.

COVID-19 has taken the lives of several members of Murthy's extended family. He told senators during his confirmation hearing that he wants to help individuals and families protect themselves by conveying “clear, science-based guidance” to the general public. Persuading Americans to keep up such protective measures as wearing masks could well be his toughest challenge.

Murthy served as co-chair of the Biden transition team’s coronavirus advisory board, and is said to enjoy a close personal relationship with the president.

Murthy's family roots are in India, but as a youngster he lived in Miami. His father had a medical clinic, where both parents worked. The son spent weekends helping out and says that’s where he discovered the art of healing.

“As a child, I watched them make house calls in the middle of the night and wake up early to visit patients in the hospital before heading to their office,” he told senators. “I have tried to live by the lessons they embodied: that we have an obligation to help each other whenever we can, to alleviate suffering wherever we find it, and to give back to this country that made their lives, and my life, and the lives of my children possible. ”

Murthy’s style evokes the bedside manner of an empathetic physician. He “effectively conveys compassion and credibility at a time of great need for just that,” said Chris Jennings, a longtime health policy adviser to Democrats.

From his previous stint as surgeon general, Murthy says he is most proud of his efforts to call attention to the opioid epidemic, the consequences of which were not fully understood at the time.

After dipping slightly, opioid deaths have again risen, driven by street formulations laced with the powerful painkiller fentanyl.

“We cannot neglect the other public health crises that have been exacerbated by this pandemic, particularly the opioid epidemic, mental illness and racial and geographic health inequities," Murthy told senators.

Murthy has drawn opposition from gun rights advocates because of his longstanding assessment that mass shootings amount to a public health problem. But he told senators that while he supports the government studying gun violence as a problem, “my focus is not on this issue, and if I’m confirmed it will be on COVID, on mental health and substance use disorder.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616610905496.png" alt="Dr. Vivek Murthy during his Senate confirmation hearing last month-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Vivek Murthy during his Senate confirmation hearing last month-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate confirmed a soft-spoken physician as President Joe Biden's surgeon general Tuesday. While Dr. Vivek Murthy says ending the coronavirus pandemic is his top priority, he's also raised concerns over a relapsing opioid overdose crisis.The vote on Murthy was 57-43, giving him bipartisan support. Biden's coronavirus response can already count on plenty of star players, but Murthy has a particular niche. As a successful author he's addressed issues of loneliness and isolation that have been exacerbated by the pandemic.For Murthy, this will be his second tour as America's doctor, having previously served under former President Barack Obama.COVID-19 has taken the lives of several members of Murthy's extended family. He told senators during his confirmation hearing that he wants to help individuals and families protect themselves by conveying “clear, science-based guidance” to the general public. Persuading Americans to keep up such protective measures as wearing masks could well be his toughest challenge.Murthy served as co-chair of the Biden transition team’s coronavirus advisory board, and is said to enjoy a close personal relationship with the president.Murthy's family roots are in India, but as a youngster he lived in Miami. His father had a medical clinic, where both parents worked. The son spent weekends helping out and says that’s where he discovered the art of healing.“As a child, I watched them make house calls in the middle of the night and wake up early to visit patients in the hospital before heading to their office,” he told senators. “I have tried to live by the lessons they embodied: that we have an obligation to help each other whenever we can, to alleviate suffering wherever we find it, and to give back to this country that made their lives, and my life, and the lives of my children possible. ”Murthy’s style evokes the bedside manner of an empathetic physician. He “effectively conveys compassion and credibility at a time of great need for just that,” said Chris Jennings, a longtime health policy adviser to Democrats.From his previous stint as surgeon general, Murthy says he is most proud of his efforts to call attention to the opioid epidemic, the consequences of which were not fully understood at the time.After dipping slightly, opioid deaths have again risen, driven by street formulations laced with the powerful painkiller fentanyl.“We cannot neglect the other public health crises that have been exacerbated by this pandemic, particularly the opioid epidemic, mental illness and racial and geographic health inequities," Murthy told senators.Murthy has drawn opposition from gun rights advocates because of his longstanding assessment that mass shootings amount to a public health problem. But he told senators that while he supports the government studying gun violence as a problem, “my focus is not on this issue, and if I’m confirmed it will be on COVID, on mental health and substance use disorder.”

New U.S. surgeon general to focus on COVID, opioids

TOPEKA— Gas prices have stabilized for the moment, according to Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas.

"After weeks of seeing price increases at the gas pumps, in the past week or so, we've started to see some stability," Steward said. "Today's statewide price in Kansas is $2.67 a gallon. That's one cent less than we saw a week ago. The national average has held steady at $2.87 a gallon."

Kansas prices continue to be generally less expensive than most of the rest of the country.

"Kansas this week is 20 cents less than the $2.87 per gallon national average," Steward said. "That puts us at 10th cheapest in the nation. 

By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostTOPEKA— Gas prices have stabilized for the moment, according to Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas."After weeks of seeing price increases at the gas pumps, in the past week or so, we've started to see some stability," Steward said. "Today's statewide price in Kansas is $2.67 a gallon. That's one cent less than we saw a week ago. The national average has held steady at $2.87 a gallon."Kansas prices continue to be generally less expensive than most of the rest of the country."Kansas this week is 20 cents less than the $2.87 per gallon national average," Steward said. "That puts us at 10th cheapest in the nation.

Gas prices stabilizing for now, says AAA

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Law enforcement officials and former associates of a 21-year-old man accused of killing 10 people at a Colorado supermarket have described the suspect as prone to sudden rage — and disclosed that he was suspended from high school several years ago for a sudden attack on a classmate that left the student bloodied.

Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa, from the Denver suburb of Arvada, was booked into jail Tuesday on murder charges a day after the attack at a King Soopers grocery in Boulder and is scheduled to make his first court appearance Thursday.

He will be advised at the hearing of the charges he faces and his rights as a defendant. He would not be asked to enter a plea until later in the judicial process.

Alissa bought a Ruger AR-556 pistol — which is technically a pistol though it resembles an AR-15 rifle with a slightly shorter stock — on March 16,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boulder-shootings-colorado-lawsuits-coronavirus-pandemic-aa071c955cfd79099d2d6a9a5a2a7ca2">six days before the attack</a>, according to an arrest affidavit. Investigators have not established a motive, said Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty.

Authorities have not disclosed where the gun was purchased. An AR-15-style gun was recovered inside the supermarket and believed to have been used in the shooting, said a law enforcement official briefed on the shooting who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

A green tactical vest and a hand gun were also recovered inside the grocery store after the suspect removed most of his clothing shortly before he was taken into custody.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boulder-shootings-theater-colorado-medicare-21a45c0f570dc00e4219cc1d9ee0fa3a">Among the dead</a>&nbsp;was Boulder police Officer Eric Talley, 51, who was the first to arrive after responding to a call about shots fired and someone carrying a gun, said police Chief Maris Herold.

The law enforcement official who was briefed on the shooting said the suspect’s family told investigators that Alissa had delusions and that they believed he was suffering some type of mental illness. The relatives described times when Alissa told them people were following or chasing him, which they said may have contributed to the violence, the official said.

After the shooting, detectives went to Alissa’s home and found his sister-in-law, who told them that he had been playing with a weapon she thought looked like a “machine gun” about two days earlier, according to an arrest affidavit.

No one answered the door Tuesday at the Arvada home believed to be owned by the suspect’s father. The two-story house with a three-car garage sits in a relatively new middle- and upper-class neighborhood.

When he was a high school senior in 2018, Alissa was found guilty of assaulting a fellow student in class after knocking him to the floor, climbing on top of him and punching him in the head several times, according to a police affidavit.

Alissa “got up in classroom, walked over to the victim and ‘cold cocked’ him in the head,” the affidavit said.

Alissa complained that the student had made fun of him and called him “racial names” weeks earlier, the affidavit said.

An Arvada police report said the victim was bloodied and vomiting after the assault. Alissa was suspended from school and sentenced to probation and community service.

One of his former high school wrestling teammates, Angel Hernandez, said Alissa became enraged after losing a match during practice, letting out a stream of invectives and yelling that he would kill everyone. Alissa’s coach kicked him off the team because of the outburst, Hernandez said.

“He was one of those guys with a short fuse,” Hernandez said. “Once he gets mad, it’s like something takes over and it’s not him. There is no stopping him at that point.”

Hernandez said Alissa also acted strangely at times, turning around suddenly or glancing over his shoulder.

“He would say, ‘Did you see that? Did you see that?’” Hernandez recalled. “We wouldn’t see anything. We always thought he was messing with us.”

Arvada police investigated but dropped a separate criminal mischief complaint involving Alissa in 2018, said Detective David Snelling. Alissa also was cited for speeding in February.

After dark Tuesday, about 100 people mourned at a makeshift memorial set up for those killed in the supermarket nearby — adorning it with wreaths, candles, banners reading “#Boulderstrong” and 10 crosses with blue hearts and the victims’ names.

Four girls huddled in the cold, one crying as she reminisced about how they had protested the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boulder-shootings-colorado-aurora-violence-1e0d6d89637819656d4aed39a5dc28f0">Others recalled</a>&nbsp;the 1999 massacre at Columbine High School and the 2012 Aurora movie theater massacre.

Homer Talley, 74, described his son Eric as a devoted father who “knew the Lord.” He had seven children, ages 7 to 20.

The other dead were identified as Denny Stong, 20; Neven Stanisic, 23; Rikki Olds, 25; Tralona Bartkowiak, 49; Suzanne Fountain, 59; Teri Leiker, 51; Kevin Mahoney, 61; Lynn Murray, 62; and Jodi Waters, 65.

Leiker, Olds and Stong worked at the supermarket, former co-worker Jordan Sailas said.

Kim Cordova, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7, which represents more than 30 store employees, said workers did their best to get customers to safety.

“They grabbed everybody they could and they brought them to the backroom or to other areas of the store to hide or got them out through the back dock,” Cordova said. “And these poor grocery workers have just been through hell in general working through COVID this entire last year of the pandemic.”

Monday’s attack was the seventh mass killing this year in the U.S., following the March 16 shooting that left eight people dead at three Atlanta-area massage businesses, according to a database compiled by the AP, USA Today and Northeastern University.

It follows a lull in mass killings during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, which had the smallest number of such attacks in eight years, according to the database, which tracks mass killings defined as four or more dead, not including the shooter.

In Washington, President Joe Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boulder-shootings-colorado-violence-legislation-674b5d19ee0255612fba242e42f9772c">called on Congress</a>&nbsp;to tighten the nation’s gun laws. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer vowed to bring forward two House-passed bills to require expanded background checks for gun buyers. Biden supports the measures, but they face a tougher route to passage in a closely divided Senate with a slim Democratic majority.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616547245871.png" alt="Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa photo Boulder Police" />
 <figcaption>Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa photo Boulder Police</figcaption>
 </figure>BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Law enforcement officials and former associates of a 21-year-old man accused of killing 10 people at a Colorado supermarket have described the suspect as prone to sudden rage — and disclosed that he was suspended from high school several years ago for a sudden attack on a classmate that left the student bloodied.Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa, from the Denver suburb of Arvada, was booked into jail Tuesday on murder charges a day after the attack at a King Soopers grocery in Boulder and is scheduled to make his first court appearance Thursday.He will be advised at the hearing of the charges he faces and his rights as a defendant. He would not be asked to enter a plea until later in the judicial process.Alissa bought a Ruger AR-556 pistol — which is technically a pistol though it resembles an AR-15 rifle with a slightly shorter stock — on March 16,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boulder-shootings-colorado-lawsuits-coronavirus-pandemic-aa071c955cfd79099d2d6a9a5a2a7ca2">six days before the attack</a>, according to an arrest affidavit. Investigators have not established a motive, said Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty.Authorities have not disclosed where the gun was purchased. An AR-15-style gun was recovered inside the supermarket and believed to have been used in the shooting, said a law enforcement official briefed on the shooting who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.A green tactical vest and a hand gun were also recovered inside the grocery store after the suspect removed most of his clothing shortly before he was taken into custody.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616505527834.png" alt="Officer Eric Talley-photo Boulder police" />
 <figcaption>Officer Eric Talley-photo Boulder police</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://apnews.com/article/boulder-shootings-theater-colorado-medicare-21a45c0f570dc00e4219cc1d9ee0fa3a">Among the dead</a>&nbsp;was Boulder police Officer Eric Talley, 51, who was the first to arrive after responding to a call about shots fired and someone carrying a gun, said police Chief Maris Herold.The law enforcement official who was briefed on the shooting said the suspect’s family told investigators that Alissa had delusions and that they believed he was suffering some type of mental illness. The relatives described times when Alissa told them people were following or chasing him, which they said may have contributed to the violence, the official said.After the shooting, detectives went to Alissa’s home and found his sister-in-law, who told them that he had been playing with a weapon she thought looked like a “machine gun” about two days earlier, according to an arrest affidavit.No one answered the door Tuesday at the Arvada home believed to be owned by the suspect’s father. The two-story house with a three-car garage sits in a relatively new middle- and upper-class neighborhood.When he was a high school senior in 2018, Alissa was found guilty of assaulting a fellow student in class after knocking him to the floor, climbing on top of him and punching him in the head several times, according to a police affidavit.Alissa “got up in classroom, walked over to the victim and ‘cold cocked’ him in the head,” the affidavit said.Alissa complained that the student had made fun of him and called him “racial names” weeks earlier, the affidavit said.An Arvada police report said the victim was bloodied and vomiting after the assault. Alissa was suspended from school and sentenced to probation and community service.One of his former high school wrestling teammates, Angel Hernandez, said Alissa became enraged after losing a match during practice, letting out a stream of invectives and yelling that he would kill everyone. Alissa’s coach kicked him off the team because of the outburst, Hernandez said.“He was one of those guys with a short fuse,” Hernandez said. “Once he gets mad, it’s like something takes over and it’s not him. There is no stopping him at that point.”Hernandez said Alissa also acted strangely at times, turning around suddenly or glancing over his shoulder.“He would say, ‘Did you see that? Did you see that?’” Hernandez recalled. “We wouldn’t see anything. We always thought he was messing with us.”Arvada police investigated but dropped a separate criminal mischief complaint involving Alissa in 2018, said Detective David Snelling. Alissa also was cited for speeding in February.After dark Tuesday, about 100 people mourned at a makeshift memorial set up for those killed in the supermarket nearby — adorning it with wreaths, candles, banners reading “#Boulderstrong” and 10 crosses with blue hearts and the victims’ names.Four girls huddled in the cold, one crying as she reminisced about how they had protested the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boulder-shootings-colorado-aurora-violence-1e0d6d89637819656d4aed39a5dc28f0">Others recalled</a>&nbsp;the 1999 massacre at Columbine High School and the 2012 Aurora movie theater massacre.Homer Talley, 74, described his son Eric as a devoted father who “knew the Lord.” He had seven children, ages 7 to 20.The other dead were identified as Denny Stong, 20; Neven Stanisic, 23; Rikki Olds, 25; Tralona Bartkowiak, 49; Suzanne Fountain, 59; Teri Leiker, 51; Kevin Mahoney, 61; Lynn Murray, 62; and Jodi Waters, 65.Leiker, Olds and Stong worked at the supermarket, former co-worker Jordan Sailas said.Kim Cordova, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7, which represents more than 30 store employees, said workers did their best to get customers to safety.“They grabbed everybody they could and they brought them to the backroom or to other areas of the store to hide or got them out through the back dock,” Cordova said. “And these poor grocery workers have just been through hell in general working through COVID this entire last year of the pandemic.”Monday’s attack was the seventh mass killing this year in the U.S., following the March 16 shooting that left eight people dead at three Atlanta-area massage businesses, according to a database compiled by the AP, USA Today and Northeastern University.It follows a lull in mass killings during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, which had the smallest number of such attacks in eight years, according to the database, which tracks mass killings defined as four or more dead, not including the shooter.In Washington, President Joe Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boulder-shootings-colorado-violence-legislation-674b5d19ee0255612fba242e42f9772c">called on Congress</a>&nbsp;to tighten the nation’s gun laws. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer vowed to bring forward two House-passed bills to require expanded background checks for gun buyers. Biden supports the measures, but they face a tougher route to passage in a closely divided Senate with a slim Democratic majority.___

Colorado shooting suspect set for court appearance

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 802 to a total of 300,927, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4881, an increase of 31.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 802 to a total of 300,927, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4881, an increase of 31.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616605413110.png" alt="Wednesday March 24, 2021 KDHE imate" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday March 24, 2021 KDHE imate</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Kansas City police officials approved two policies Tuesday that respond to demands from activists for police reform.

One policy approved by the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners creates guidelines for how police should respond to protesters during public demonstrations. Officers must limit their use of less-lethal weapons such as tear gas, create a buffer zone between them and demonstrators and avoid intentionally escalating tensions.

Officers are also required to focus on people who are violating the law, while allowing others to continue to exercise their right to free speech.

The change came after police were criticized for their handling of social justice protests in Kansas City last summer, when officers used tear gas and other less-lethal means to disperse crowds.

The second policy requires officers to activate their body-worn cameras during every interaction with the public. Videos that are not needed for evidence will be kept for 180 days.

Community leaders have been asking for years that officers wear body cameras to record confrontations with the public.

In June, police announced they received a total of $2.5 million to fund a body camera program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590925487256.png" alt="The change comes after police were criticized for their handling of social justice protests in Kansas City last summer, when officers used tear gas and other less-lethal means to disperse crowds-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>The change comes after police were criticized for their handling of social justice protests in Kansas City last summer, when officers used tear gas and other less-lethal means to disperse crowds-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Kansas City police officials approved two policies Tuesday that respond to demands from activists for police reform.One policy approved by the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners creates guidelines for how police should respond to protesters during public demonstrations. Officers must limit their use of less-lethal weapons such as tear gas, create a buffer zone between them and demonstrators and avoid intentionally escalating tensions.Officers are also required to focus on people who are violating the law, while allowing others to continue to exercise their right to free speech.The change came after police were criticized for their handling of social justice protests in Kansas City last summer, when officers used tear gas and other less-lethal means to disperse crowds.The second policy requires officers to activate their body-worn cameras during every interaction with the public. Videos that are not needed for evidence will be kept for 180 days.Community leaders have been asking for years that officers wear body cameras to record confrontations with the public.In June, police announced they received a total of $2.5 million to fund a body camera program.

Kansas City police change policy on response to protests

WASHINGTON — Dr. Anthony Fauci isn’t ready to say the nation has turned the corner on the coronavirus pandemic despite about 2.5 million Americans are getting vaccinated each day.

The government’s top infectious disease expert say he often gets asked that question. His response: “We are at the corner. Whether we or not we are going to be turning the corner remains to be seen.”

At the White House coronavirus briefing on Wednesday, Fauci says the main challenge remains a stubbornly high level of new daily cases in the country. It’s hovering around an average of 55,000 and up slightly in recent days. While that is clearly much better than the 250,000 daily cases at the peak of the winter wave, it’s uncomfortably close to levels seen during the COVID wave of last summer.

“When you are at that level, I don’t think you can declare victory and say you have turned the corner,” Fauci says.

On the plus side, along with the growing level of vaccinations, Fauci is underscoring recent studies that show negligible rates of coronavirus infection among fully vaccinated people. There’s also been a significant drop in the number of people 65 and older going to the emergency room with COVID-19. That’s the age group most vulnerable to the disease.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612486273418.png" alt="At the White House coronavirus briefing on Wednesday,&nbsp; Dr. Fauci said the main challenge remains a stubbornly high level of new daily cases in the country.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>At the White House coronavirus briefing on Wednesday,&nbsp; Dr. Fauci said the main challenge remains a stubbornly high level of new daily cases in the country.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — Dr. Anthony Fauci isn’t ready to say the nation has turned the corner on the coronavirus pandemic despite about 2.5 million Americans are getting vaccinated each day.The government’s top infectious disease expert say he often gets asked that question. His response: “We are at the corner. Whether we or not we are going to be turning the corner remains to be seen.”At the White House coronavirus briefing on Wednesday, Fauci says the main challenge remains a stubbornly high level of new daily cases in the country. It’s hovering around an average of 55,000 and up slightly in recent days. While that is clearly much better than the 250,000 daily cases at the peak of the winter wave, it’s uncomfortably close to levels seen during the COVID wave of last summer.“When you are at that level, I don’t think you can declare victory and say you have turned the corner,” Fauci says.On the plus side, along with the growing level of vaccinations, Fauci is underscoring recent studies that show negligible rates of coronavirus infection among fully vaccinated people. There’s also been a significant drop in the number of people 65 and older going to the emergency room with COVID-19. That’s the age group most vulnerable to the disease.___

Dr. Fauci: Not turning corner yet on coronavirus

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp; U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.) and U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01), Jake LaTurner (KS-02), Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Ron Estes (KS-04) urged President Joe Biden to authorize a state funeral for the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II, according to a media release from Moran's office.

“The men and women who fought and served in World War II, rightfully called the 'Greatest Generation,' saved our nation and the world from the tyranny and evil of the Axis Powers,”&nbsp;wrote the delegation.&nbsp;“The 473 Medal of Honor recipients of World War II represent the incredible courage and sacrifice of that generation. Only two of these heroes remain, and when the last one passes away, we must render a farewell that properly represents our nation’s highest regard and most profound gratitude.

“Mr. President, we speak for our constituents when we share our conviction that this last decorated hero of the Greatest Generation must be given a farewell of the very highest order our nation can offer,”&nbsp;continued the delegation.

We, the members of the Kansas Congressional Delegation, write today to request your support for a state funeral for the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. The men and women who fought and served in World War II, rightfully called the “Greatest Generation,” saved our nation and the world from the tyranny and evil of the Axis Powers. The 473 Medal of Honor recipients of World War II represent the incredible courage and sacrifice of that generation. Only two of these heroes remain, and when the last one passes away, we must render a farewell that properly represents our nation’s highest regard and most profound gratitude.

Medal of Honor winners are frequently called upon to speak about their wartime experiences, and their perspectives share a common theme: the conviction that their medal represents countless other acts of heroism by their brothers and sisters in arms, acts that were committed selflessly and without acknowledgement or celebration. They often use their speaking engagements to recognize the heroism of their fellow warriors. One example is Walter D. Ehlers, a Medal of Honor recipient from Kansas. Sergeant Ehlers, who participated in the D-Day invasion of Normandy, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his acts of bravery “in the face of overwhelming forces” a few days later. What his citation does not mention is that his brother, Roland, participated in the D-Day invasion as well but was killed in action on the beach. Sergeant Ehlers said of his brother in one interview, “He was my hero until the day he died. He still is.” Thus, Medal of Honor winners serve as living and breathing testaments to the courage and sacrifice of all of our nation’s warriors, and the last remaining Medal of Honor recipient from World War II will carry that legacy.

This would not be the first time that a soldier received a state funeral to honor the countless others they represent, along with their own personal sacrifice. In 1921, the Unknown Soldier of World War I was interred with a state funeral because President Harding recognized that the Unknown Soldier represents countless others who died and were buried in unmarked graves with no honors and no recognition. Significantly, President Harding placed a Medal of Honor on the Unknown Soldier’s casket.

Mr. President, we speak for our constituents when we share our conviction that this last decorated hero of the Greatest Generation must be given a farewell of the very highest order our nation can offer. Please let us know if there is any way that we can further support this noble and necessary effort.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614817353591.png" alt="Rep. LaTurner, Rep. Estes, Senator Moran, Rep. Davids, Senator Marshall and Rep. Mann -courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. LaTurner, Rep. Estes, Senator Moran, Rep. Davids, Senator Marshall and Rep. Mann -courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp; U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.) and U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01), Jake LaTurner (KS-02), Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Ron Estes (KS-04) urged President Joe Biden to authorize a state funeral for the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II, according to a media release from Moran's office.“The men and women who fought and served in World War II, rightfully called the 'Greatest Generation,' saved our nation and the world from the tyranny and evil of the Axis Powers,”&nbsp;wrote the delegation.&nbsp;“The 473 Medal of Honor recipients of World War II represent the incredible courage and sacrifice of that generation. Only two of these heroes remain, and when the last one passes away, we must render a farewell that properly represents our nation’s highest regard and most profound gratitude.“Mr. President, we speak for our constituents when we share our conviction that this last decorated hero of the Greatest Generation must be given a farewell of the very highest order our nation can offer,”&nbsp;continued the delegation.The full letter is below.Dear Mr. President:We, the members of the Kansas Congressional Delegation, write today to request your support for a state funeral for the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. The men and women who fought and served in World War II, rightfully called the “Greatest Generation,” saved our nation and the world from the tyranny and evil of the Axis Powers. The 473 Medal of Honor recipients of World War II represent the incredible courage and sacrifice of that generation. Only two of these heroes remain, and when the last one passes away, we must render a farewell that properly represents our nation’s highest regard and most profound gratitude.Medal of Honor winners are frequently called upon to speak about their wartime experiences, and their perspectives share a common theme: the conviction that their medal represents countless other acts of heroism by their brothers and sisters in arms, acts that were committed selflessly and without acknowledgement or celebration. They often use their speaking engagements to recognize the heroism of their fellow warriors. One example is Walter D. Ehlers, a Medal of Honor recipient from Kansas. Sergeant Ehlers, who participated in the D-Day invasion of Normandy, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his acts of bravery “in the face of overwhelming forces” a few days later. What his citation does not mention is that his brother, Roland, participated in the D-Day invasion as well but was killed in action on the beach. Sergeant Ehlers said of his brother in one interview, “He was my hero until the day he died. He still is.” Thus, Medal of Honor winners serve as living and breathing testaments to the courage and sacrifice of all of our nation’s warriors, and the last remaining Medal of Honor recipient from World War II will carry that legacy.This would not be the first time that a soldier received a state funeral to honor the countless others they represent, along with their own personal sacrifice. In 1921, the Unknown Soldier of World War I was interred with a state funeral because President Harding recognized that the Unknown Soldier represents countless others who died and were buried in unmarked graves with no honors and no recognition. Significantly, President Harding placed a Medal of Honor on the Unknown Soldier’s casket.Mr. President, we speak for our constituents when we share our conviction that this last decorated hero of the Greatest Generation must be given a farewell of the very highest order our nation can offer. Please let us know if there is any way that we can further support this noble and necessary effort.

Kan. delegation urges president to authorize state funeral for Medal of Honor recipient

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a domestic violence case and asking the public for help to locate a suspect.

On Saturday, police were sent to a domestic violence call in the 200 block of South College Avenue in Salina, according to a media release.

A 29-year-old Salina woman reported being the victim of domestic violence related crimes. The suspect identified as 34-year-old Brandon Lambert, had left the area as officers arrived.

Lambert is described as 5-foot-7, 204 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. Lambert has previous contacts within Dickinson, Riley, and Saline counties, and has also been known to drive tractor-trailer rigs in the north-central region of Kansas for Lambert Trucking (Kansas Transport Company), operating under USDOT Number 832682 and MC Number 736568, SPD noted.

According to SPD, "an affidavit was submitted to the Saline County Attorney’s Office, and an Arrest Warrant was issued by the Saline County District Court for Lambert for the following requested charges: Attempted First Degree Murder, Aggravated Domestic Violence Battery, Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness, Criminal Threat, Criminal Damage to Property, Violation of Protection Order, and Harassment by Telecommunication Device."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616591520358.jpeg" alt="Lambert -photo Salina Police" />
 <figcaption>Lambert -photo Salina Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a domestic violence case and asking the public for help to locate a suspect.On Saturday, police were sent to a domestic violence call in the 200 block of South College Avenue in Salina, according to a media release.A 29-year-old Salina woman reported being the victim of domestic violence related crimes. The suspect identified as 34-year-old Brandon Lambert, had left the area as officers arrived.Lambert is described as 5-foot-7, 204 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. Lambert has previous contacts within Dickinson, Riley, and Saline counties, and has also been known to drive tractor-trailer rigs in the north-central region of Kansas for Lambert Trucking (Kansas Transport Company), operating under USDOT Number 832682 and MC Number 736568, SPD noted.According to SPD, "an affidavit was submitted to the Saline County Attorney’s Office, and an Arrest Warrant was issued by the Saline County District Court for Lambert for the following requested charges: Attempted First Degree Murder, Aggravated Domestic Violence Battery, Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness, Criminal Threat, Criminal Damage to Property, Violation of Protection Order, and Harassment by Telecommunication Device."

Police: Kan. man wanted for violent attack on woman

WASHINGTON (AP) —Postmaster General Louis DeJoy on Tuesday announced plans to slow mail delivery standards and cut hours at some post offices as part of a 10-year strategy to stabilize the struggling agency.

Details of the long-awaited plan come at a time of intense scrutiny on the U.S. Postal Service over persistent delivery delays under DeJoy, a major GOP donor who took over the agency last summer. The plan also includes a proposal to consolidate underused post offices, hinted at a potential postage rate increase and detailed investments in new delivery vehicles, among other things.

Facing an expected $160 billion in losses over the next decade, DeJoy and postal executives stressed the need to cut costs and modernize the agency's operations as its workload increasingly shifts from handling letters to hauling more and more packages.

“This is about the long-term viability of the organization under the two missions that we have that are legislated, that is deliver to every house six days a week and be self-sustaining," DeJoy said. He announced the plans at a webinar with other postal service officials.

DeJoy said the biggest change would be a relaxing of the current first-class letter delivery standard of one-to-three-days to a one-to-five-day benchmark. Postal leadership said the longer timeframe would apply only to mail going to the farthest reaches of its network and that 70% of first-class mail will still be delivered within a three-day standard.

The agency said it will subject potential changes to delivery standards, as well as several other parts of their plan, to a formal rulemaking process and advisory opinions from the independent Postal Regulatory Commission before they go into effect.

Sen. Gary Peters, a Michigan Democrat who has been critical of DeJoy, cautioned that any reduction of delivery standards would have a big impact on customers.

“While I understand Postal Service leadership’s desire to set long-term goals, I am concerned that several of the initiatives in this plan will harm service for folks across the country who rely on the Postal Service for prescription drugs, financial documents, running their small businesses, and more," said Peters.

Democrats have repeatedly called for DeJoy to be removed from his post as delivery times have lagged across the country. Late last month, President Joe Biden named three nominees to the agency's governing board, which if approved, would give Democrats and Democratic appointees a majority on the panel and the ability to oust DeJoy through a vote. Currently, all six of the board's members were appointed by former President Donald Trump. The White House didn't immediately return an email seeking comment.

DeJoy, a former supply-chain CEO who took over the Postal Service last June, has been mired in controversy since taking over the agency.

Shortly after taking the position, DeJoy carried out a series of controversial policy changes that delayed mail before the 2020 election, fueling worry that he was sabotaging the agency on behalf of Trump, a vocal critic of mail-in voting. DeJoy has strongly disputed that claim and eventually suspended some of his changes following intense public pushback and a crush of legal challenges.

Despite the concerns, the agency said it processed and delivered at least 135 million ballots during the general election and that 99.7% of ballots were delivered to election officials within five days.

Mark Dimondstein, president of the American Postal Workers Union, said the plan included some positive elements but urged the agency to prioritize on-time deliveries and other service standards.

“Any proposals that would either slow the mail, reduce access to post offices, or further pursue the failed strategy of plant consolidation will need to be addressed,” he said in a statement. “The APWU will proactively engage with USPS’s managers, the Postal Regulatory Commission, leaders in Congress and the public to address these issues.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616542786053.png" alt="Postmaster General Louis DeJoy testified before a Congressional committee in February -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Postmaster General Louis DeJoy testified before a Congressional committee in February -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —Postmaster General Louis DeJoy on Tuesday announced plans to slow mail delivery standards and cut hours at some post offices as part of a 10-year strategy to stabilize the struggling agency.Details of the long-awaited plan come at a time of intense scrutiny on the U.S. Postal Service over persistent delivery delays under DeJoy, a major GOP donor who took over the agency last summer. The plan also includes a proposal to consolidate underused post offices, hinted at a potential postage rate increase and detailed investments in new delivery vehicles, among other things.Facing an expected $160 billion in losses over the next decade, DeJoy and postal executives stressed the need to cut costs and modernize the agency's operations as its workload increasingly shifts from handling letters to hauling more and more packages.“This is about the long-term viability of the organization under the two missions that we have that are legislated, that is deliver to every house six days a week and be self-sustaining," DeJoy said. He announced the plans at a webinar with other postal service officials.DeJoy said the biggest change would be a relaxing of the current first-class letter delivery standard of one-to-three-days to a one-to-five-day benchmark. Postal leadership said the longer timeframe would apply only to mail going to the farthest reaches of its network and that 70% of first-class mail will still be delivered within a three-day standard.The agency said it will subject potential changes to delivery standards, as well as several other parts of their plan, to a formal rulemaking process and advisory opinions from the independent Postal Regulatory Commission before they go into effect.Sen. Gary Peters, a Michigan Democrat who has been critical of DeJoy, cautioned that any reduction of delivery standards would have a big impact on customers.“While I understand Postal Service leadership’s desire to set long-term goals, I am concerned that several of the initiatives in this plan will harm service for folks across the country who rely on the Postal Service for prescription drugs, financial documents, running their small businesses, and more," said Peters.Democrats have repeatedly called for DeJoy to be removed from his post as delivery times have lagged across the country. Late last month, President Joe Biden named three nominees to the agency's governing board, which if approved, would give Democrats and Democratic appointees a majority on the panel and the ability to oust DeJoy through a vote. Currently, all six of the board's members were appointed by former President Donald Trump. The White House didn't immediately return an email seeking comment.DeJoy, a former supply-chain CEO who took over the Postal Service last June, has been mired in controversy since taking over the agency.Shortly after taking the position, DeJoy carried out a series of controversial policy changes that delayed mail before the 2020 election, fueling worry that he was sabotaging the agency on behalf of Trump, a vocal critic of mail-in voting. DeJoy has strongly disputed that claim and eventually suspended some of his changes following intense public pushback and a crush of legal challenges.Despite the concerns, the agency said it processed and delivered at least 135 million ballots during the general election and that 99.7% of ballots were delivered to election officials within five days.Mark Dimondstein, president of the American Postal Workers Union, said the plan included some positive elements but urged the agency to prioritize on-time deliveries and other service standards.“Any proposals that would either slow the mail, reduce access to post offices, or further pursue the failed strategy of plant consolidation will need to be addressed,” he said in a statement. “The APWU will proactively engage with USPS’s managers, the Postal Regulatory Commission, leaders in Congress and the public to address these issues.”

Slower mail, higher prices in U.S. Postal Service plan

FORD COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a teen in Ford County and asking the public for help with information.

Just before 8:30p.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to a residence for a report of an individual knowing about a deceased body, according to a media release from Dodge City. Police.

With the information from this individual, officers responded to the 1200 block of West Elm Street in Dodge City where they located the body later identified as&nbsp;18-year-old Zacarias Giannino of Dodge City.

After processing the scene, the body of the teen was turned over to the Ford County Coroner for further examination. The condition of the body indicated he had been deceased for a few weeks.

On Tuesday an autopsy was performed to determine the cause of death. This is an active and ongoing homicide investigation. DCPD asks that anyone with information about this incident please call the department at 620-225-8126, dispatch at 620-227-4646, or submit a tip through the DCPD Facebook page or tip411 service.

FORD COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a teen in Ford County and asking the public for help with information.Just before 8:30p.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to a residence for a report of an individual knowing about a deceased body, according to a media release from Dodge City. Police.With the information from this individual, officers responded to the 1200 block of West Elm Street in Dodge City where they located the body later identified as&nbsp;18-year-old Zacarias Giannino of Dodge City.After processing the scene, the body of the teen was turned over to the Ford County Coroner for further examination. The condition of the body indicated he had been deceased for a few weeks.On Tuesday an autopsy was performed to determine the cause of death. This is an active and ongoing homicide investigation. DCPD asks that anyone with information about this incident please call the department at 620-225-8126, dispatch at 620-227-4646, or submit a tip through the DCPD Facebook page or tip411 service.

Police ID teen murder victim in SW Kansas 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a jail kitchen worker and have made an arrest.

On Monday, the Sheriff’s Office received information concerning a contract kitchen employee bringing contraband into the Detention Facility, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

 The complaint was investigated by the Investigations Division of the Sheriff’s Office and determined probable cause existed to arrest the kitchen employee identified as 42-year-old Natalie Willis on requested charges of of Possession of Hallucinogenic Drugs, one count of Trafficking Contraband, and one count of Possession of a Controlled Substance.

She is a kitchen contract employee and employed by Summit Food Service. All contract employees go through a background check before they are allowed to work inside of the Detention Facility, according to Blick.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616529480958.png" alt="Willis photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Willis photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a jail kitchen worker and have made an arrest.On Monday, the Sheriff’s Office received information concerning a contract kitchen employee bringing contraband into the Detention Facility, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick. The complaint was investigated by the Investigations Division of the Sheriff’s Office and determined probable cause existed to arrest the kitchen employee identified as 42-year-old Natalie Willis on requested charges of of Possession of Hallucinogenic Drugs, one count of Trafficking Contraband, and one count of Possession of a Controlled Substance.She is a kitchen contract employee and employed by Summit Food Service. All contract employees go through a background check before they are allowed to work inside of the Detention Facility, according to Blick.

Kitchen worker at Kan. jail arrested following investigation

WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats said Tuesday that they are pushing toward a vote on expanded gun control measures as the nation reels from its second mass shooting in a week. President Joe Biden said “we have to act,” but prospects for any major changes were dim, for now, in the closely divided Congress.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?510204-1/president-biden-calls-congress-ban-assault-weapons-pass-background-checks-legislation">Click here&nbsp;</a>to watch the President's statement

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer vowed Tuesday morning to bring to the Senate floor legislation passed by the House that would require background checks for most gun sales and transfers. He said the Senate “must confront a devastating truth” after a lack of congressional action on the issue for almost three decades.

“This Senate will be different,” Schumer, D-N.Y., said a day after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-supermarket-shooting-10-dead-3da92f0d3db65afdb373cc6bb534a711">a shooting at a crowded Boulder, Colorado, supermarket</a>, killed 10 people, including a police officer. “The Senate is going to debate and address the epidemic of gun violence in this country.”

While a Senate vote on new gun control would be the first in several years, Democrats do not have the votes to pass any significant reform. They are not even united themselves, as Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., told reporters Tuesday that he opposes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-shootings-legislation-gun-politics-bills-fbb6872ac0575551e2fc190f3aefbd73">the House legislation on background checks</a>.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., who has aggressively pushed for expanded gun control since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3795f3325a095af631cd19c280ae249b">the 2012 shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School</a>&nbsp;that killed 20 children and six educators, expressed optimism about the chances for new laws with Biden in the White House and Democrats controlling the House and the Senate. He called it “the dawn of a new era.”

Reality is likely more complicated. Senate Democrats do not currently have deep enough support among Republicans to pass new gun control legislation in the 50-50 Senate, as they would need 60 votes to do so. While expanding background checks is generally popular with the American public, even with some conservatives, Congress has been unable to find a successful compromise on guns in decades, making it one of the most intractable issues in American politics.

The gun debate also highlights a larger difficulty for Senate Democrats as they try to move forward on gun legislation and other policy priorities of the Biden White House. With the filibuster in place, forcing a 60-vote threshold for most legislation, House-passed bills on issues like gun control and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-passes-sweeping-voting-rights-bill-88088175552f13a8e3f6f25d7bc45f6c">voting rights</a>&nbsp;are effectively nonstarters unless Democrats secure significant GOP support.

Some Republicans hinted that they would be open to negotiations, though it was unclear if there were any real bipartisan discussions. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said he was opposed to the House legislation, but “I’m certainly open to the discussion.”

Manchin and Republican Sen. Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania, who have worked together for years to find compromise on background checks, both said they were opposed to the House legislation, which would close loopholes to ensure background checks are extended to private and online sales that often go undetected, including at gun shows, with some limited exemptions for family and other scenarios. A similar version Manchin and Toomey proposed just after the Sandy Hook shootings included a broader set of exemptions than the House bill.

The House also passed a second bill to extend a certain review period for background checks from three to 10 days. Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., introduced the legislation after a shooter killed nine people at a Charleston, South Carolina, church in 2015.

Toomey said he would like to find legislation that could pass, but “that probably would require something that’s a little bit different. So, we’ll see if we can figure out how to thread that needle.”

Manchin did not say whether he would restart negotiations, only that “we’re going to try to do the responsible, reasonable thing.”

Schumer and Connecticut Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy, a leading advocate for gun control, said they would meet this week to discuss a path forward. Schumer has not said when he will bring the House legislation up for a vote.

Democrats say they feel the environment around gun legislation has evolved, especially since that last major push in 2013. They point to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ap-top-news-new-york-lawsuits-election-2020-u-s-news-056b7845ad1a35a68a4bf837329d9f6f">troubles at the National Rifle Association</a>, the long-powerful advocacy group that poured tens of millions of dollars into electing Donald Trump in 2016. The organization has been weakened by infighting as well as legal tangles over its finances.

“This is the moment to make our stand. NOW,” tweeted Murphy as details of the Colorado shooting emerged Monday evening. “Today, our movement is stronger than the gun lobby. They are weak. We are potent. Finally, a President and a Congress that supports gun reform.”

Democrats are hoping there is a gradual political shift among voters as well. A Pew Research Center poll in September 2019 showed a wide majority of Americans, 88%, supported making private gun sales and sales at gun shows subject to background checks, which is what the House-passed bill would do. Ninety-three percent of Democrats and 82% of Republicans were in favor of the policy.

Many in the GOP base are still strongly opposed to gun control of any kind. In Tuesday’s hearing, which was scheduled before the Colorado shooting, Republicans showed no signs of wavering. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz said that every time there is a shooting, the Senate engages in “ridiculous theater,” with Democrats proposing laws that he said could take guns away from law-abiding citizens. Republicans have argued that background checks would not stop most mass shootings and would prevent some lawful gun owners from purchasing firearms.

“We already know this pattern is predictable, over and over and over again,” Cruz said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616542961618.png" alt="During a White House statement Tuesday President Joe Biden said “we have to act."&nbsp; &nbsp;Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>During a White House statement Tuesday President Joe Biden said “we have to act."&nbsp; &nbsp;Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats said Tuesday that they are pushing toward a vote on expanded gun control measures as the nation reels from its second mass shooting in a week. President Joe Biden said “we have to act,” but prospects for any major changes were dim, for now, in the closely divided Congress.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?510204-1/president-biden-calls-congress-ban-assault-weapons-pass-background-checks-legislation">Click here&nbsp;</a>to watch the President's statementSenate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer vowed Tuesday morning to bring to the Senate floor legislation passed by the House that would require background checks for most gun sales and transfers. He said the Senate “must confront a devastating truth” after a lack of congressional action on the issue for almost three decades.“This Senate will be different,” Schumer, D-N.Y., said a day after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-supermarket-shooting-10-dead-3da92f0d3db65afdb373cc6bb534a711">a shooting at a crowded Boulder, Colorado, supermarket</a>, killed 10 people, including a police officer. “The Senate is going to debate and address the epidemic of gun violence in this country.”While a Senate vote on new gun control would be the first in several years, Democrats do not have the votes to pass any significant reform. They are not even united themselves, as Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., told reporters Tuesday that he opposes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-shootings-legislation-gun-politics-bills-fbb6872ac0575551e2fc190f3aefbd73">the House legislation on background checks</a>.Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., who has aggressively pushed for expanded gun control since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3795f3325a095af631cd19c280ae249b">the 2012 shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School</a>&nbsp;that killed 20 children and six educators, expressed optimism about the chances for new laws with Biden in the White House and Democrats controlling the House and the Senate. He called it “the dawn of a new era.”Reality is likely more complicated. Senate Democrats do not currently have deep enough support among Republicans to pass new gun control legislation in the 50-50 Senate, as they would need 60 votes to do so. While expanding background checks is generally popular with the American public, even with some conservatives, Congress has been unable to find a successful compromise on guns in decades, making it one of the most intractable issues in American politics.The gun debate also highlights a larger difficulty for Senate Democrats as they try to move forward on gun legislation and other policy priorities of the Biden White House. With the filibuster in place, forcing a 60-vote threshold for most legislation, House-passed bills on issues like gun control and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-passes-sweeping-voting-rights-bill-88088175552f13a8e3f6f25d7bc45f6c">voting rights</a>&nbsp;are effectively nonstarters unless Democrats secure significant GOP support.Some Republicans hinted that they would be open to negotiations, though it was unclear if there were any real bipartisan discussions. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said he was opposed to the House legislation, but “I’m certainly open to the discussion.”Manchin and Republican Sen. Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania, who have worked together for years to find compromise on background checks, both said they were opposed to the House legislation, which would close loopholes to ensure background checks are extended to private and online sales that often go undetected, including at gun shows, with some limited exemptions for family and other scenarios. A similar version Manchin and Toomey proposed just after the Sandy Hook shootings included a broader set of exemptions than the House bill.The House also passed a second bill to extend a certain review period for background checks from three to 10 days. Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., introduced the legislation after a shooter killed nine people at a Charleston, South Carolina, church in 2015.Toomey said he would like to find legislation that could pass, but “that probably would require something that’s a little bit different. So, we’ll see if we can figure out how to thread that needle.”Manchin did not say whether he would restart negotiations, only that “we’re going to try to do the responsible, reasonable thing.”Schumer and Connecticut Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy, a leading advocate for gun control, said they would meet this week to discuss a path forward. Schumer has not said when he will bring the House legislation up for a vote.Democrats say they feel the environment around gun legislation has evolved, especially since that last major push in 2013. They point to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ap-top-news-new-york-lawsuits-election-2020-u-s-news-056b7845ad1a35a68a4bf837329d9f6f">troubles at the National Rifle Association</a>, the long-powerful advocacy group that poured tens of millions of dollars into electing Donald Trump in 2016. The organization has been weakened by infighting as well as legal tangles over its finances.“This is the moment to make our stand. NOW,” tweeted Murphy as details of the Colorado shooting emerged Monday evening. “Today, our movement is stronger than the gun lobby. They are weak. We are potent. Finally, a President and a Congress that supports gun reform.”Democrats are hoping there is a gradual political shift among voters as well. A Pew Research Center poll in September 2019 showed a wide majority of Americans, 88%, supported making private gun sales and sales at gun shows subject to background checks, which is what the House-passed bill would do. Ninety-three percent of Democrats and 82% of Republicans were in favor of the policy.Many in the GOP base are still strongly opposed to gun control of any kind. In Tuesday’s hearing, which was scheduled before the Colorado shooting, Republicans showed no signs of wavering. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz said that every time there is a shooting, the Senate engages in “ridiculous theater,” with Democrats proposing laws that he said could take guns away from law-abiding citizens. Republicans have argued that background checks would not stop most mass shootings and would prevent some lawful gun owners from purchasing firearms.“We already know this pattern is predictable, over and over and over again,” Cruz said.

🎥  Prospects dim for any major changes on gun laws

DETROIT (AP) — THE STAR&nbsp;of HGTV's “Rehab Addict Rescue” apparently was “scammed” when she bought a blighted Detroit home from someone who wasn't the owner, the mayor said.

The Detroit Land Bank Authority holds the title to the house. Nicole Curtis said she paid $17,000 for the property in 2017 and has spent $60,000 in repairs and other costs so far.

The land bank has put the house on the market for $40,000. Curtis filed a lawsuit last week, seeking to keep the property or be reimbursed.

“I feel bad for Nicole," Mayor Mike Duggan said Monday. "It appears she was scammed. It appears she paid somebody who didn’t own the house and paid them to buy it. But the land bank can’t legally just give her the property.”

Duggan said courts have already ruled that the land bank is the owner. But he wants Curtis to stick with the project and hopes she can make a deal.

“They can’t turn the property over without getting value,” the mayor said of the land bank.

Curtis’ Detroit Renovations LLC apparently didn’t know that the house had returned to the land bank’s control after the previous owners failed to fixed it up. Those owners executed a quit claim deed to Detroit Renovations in 2017.

Curtis, a native of suburban Detroit, said it would be wrong for the land bank to benefit from her investment.

“I didn’t become so successful in business by being somebody who backs down,” she said.

DETROIT (AP) — THE STAR&nbsp;of HGTV's “Rehab Addict Rescue” apparently was “scammed” when she bought a blighted Detroit home from someone who wasn't the owner, the mayor said.The Detroit Land Bank Authority holds the title to the house. Nicole Curtis said she paid $17,000 for the property in 2017 and has spent $60,000 in repairs and other costs so far.The land bank has put the house on the market for $40,000. Curtis filed a lawsuit last week, seeking to keep the property or be reimbursed.“I feel bad for Nicole," Mayor Mike Duggan said Monday. "It appears she was scammed. It appears she paid somebody who didn’t own the house and paid them to buy it. But the land bank can’t legally just give her the property.”Duggan said courts have already ruled that the land bank is the owner. But he wants Curtis to stick with the project and hopes she can make a deal.“They can’t turn the property over without getting value,” the mayor said of the land bank.Curtis’ Detroit Renovations LLC apparently didn’t know that the house had returned to the land bank’s control after the previous owners failed to fixed it up. Those owners executed a quit claim deed to Detroit Renovations in 2017.Curtis, a native of suburban Detroit, said it would be wrong for the land bank to benefit from her investment.“I didn’t become so successful in business by being somebody who backs down,” she said.

Mayor: HGTV star was 'scammed' in house deal

STRAFFORD, Mo. (AP) — A prosecutor says a man killed his wife and her parents over the weekend because the in-laws arrived for a visit and “they wouldn’t leave.”

The shooting happened Saturday near the small town of Strafford in southwestern Missouri. The suspect, 50-year-old Jesse Huy, is charged with three counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of 48-year-old Tonya Huy and her parents, 71-year-old Ronald Koehler and 78-year-old Linda Koehler of Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

The Greene County prosecuting attorney’s office on Monday released the suspected motive.

Tonya Huy’s parents were visiting to help their daughter after her recent back surgery. Investigators say Jesse Huy shot all three victims in the head and then called authorities after the killings.

When a dispatcher asked why he did it, he allegedly replied, “Well, they wouldn’t leave. I’ve been waiting for a week for them to leave. I’ve had enough.”

Huy is jailed without bond and doesn’t yet have a listed attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616410507582.png" alt="Huy photo Greene Co." />
 <figcaption>Huy photo Greene Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>STRAFFORD, Mo. (AP) — A prosecutor says a man killed his wife and her parents over the weekend because the in-laws arrived for a visit and “they wouldn’t leave.”The shooting happened Saturday near the small town of Strafford in southwestern Missouri. The suspect, 50-year-old Jesse Huy, is charged with three counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of 48-year-old Tonya Huy and her parents, 71-year-old Ronald Koehler and 78-year-old Linda Koehler of Baton Rouge, Louisiana.The Greene County prosecuting attorney’s office on Monday released the suspected motive.Tonya Huy’s parents were visiting to help their daughter after her recent back surgery. Investigators say Jesse Huy shot all three victims in the head and then called authorities after the killings.When a dispatcher asked why he did it, he allegedly replied, “Well, they wouldn’t leave. I’ve been waiting for a week for them to leave. I’ve had enough.”Huy is jailed without bond and doesn’t yet have a listed attorney.

Man’s alleged motive for killings: ‘In-laws wouldn’t leave’

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man who was serving a 12-year <a href="https://www.freealbertwilson.com/">prison sentence for rape</a> before a judge ordered that he receive a new trial might not be tried a second time, Douglas County District Attorney Suzanne Valdez said Tuesday.

Albert Wilson, 25, Wichita was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-lawrence-trials-hutchinson-12f205a83c50b1f1476dc76fb5bedb82">granted a new trial&nbsp;</a>last week after Judge Sally Pokorny ruled he had received ineffective counsel before he was convicted of one count of rape in 2019.

During a hearing on Tuesday, Valdez said her office planned to work with Wilson’s attorneys to resolve the case without a second trial “so that we can hopefully get justice for both the defendant and the survivor.

Wilson’s next court date was scheduled for May 13. He has been released from prison.

A girl who was 17 at the time said that she met Wilson, who was 20, at a Lawrence bar on Sept. 11, 2016. She said he assaulted her at the bar and later raped her at his house while she was drunk.

During his appeal for a new trial, Wilson’s attorneys focused on thousands of text messages on the girl’s phone, which Wilson’s original attorney did not present as evidence at the tria

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616540891786.png" alt="Wilson outside the Douglas County Courthouse Tuesday-photo courtesy <a href="https://www.freealbertwilson.com/">Free Albert Wilson</a> Facebook and KAKE" />
 <figcaption>Wilson outside the Douglas County Courthouse Tuesday-photo courtesy <a href="https://www.freealbertwilson.com/">Free Albert Wilson</a> Facebook and KAKE</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man who was serving a 12-year <a href="https://www.freealbertwilson.com/">prison sentence for rape</a> before a judge ordered that he receive a new trial might not be tried a second time, Douglas County District Attorney Suzanne Valdez said Tuesday.Albert Wilson, 25, Wichita was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-lawrence-trials-hutchinson-12f205a83c50b1f1476dc76fb5bedb82">granted a new trial&nbsp;</a>last week after Judge Sally Pokorny ruled he had received ineffective counsel before he was convicted of one count of rape in 2019.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615914127131.png" alt="Wilson photo Douglas Co." />
 <figcaption>Wilson photo Douglas Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>During a hearing on Tuesday, Valdez said her office planned to work with Wilson’s attorneys to resolve the case without a second trial “so that we can hopefully get justice for both the defendant and the survivor.Wilson’s next court date was scheduled for May 13. He has been released from prison.A girl who was 17 at the time said that she met Wilson, who was 20, at a Lawrence bar on Sept. 11, 2016. She said he assaulted her at the bar and later raped her at his house while she was drunk.During his appeal for a new trial, Wilson’s attorneys focused on thousands of text messages on the girl’s phone, which Wilson’s original attorney did not present as evidence at the tria

Kan. man convicted of rape released from prison

EMPORIA, KAN. (AP) — A Kansas man was charged with first-degree murder and more than 25 other counts after a fatal collision occurred while he was trying to flee from police, law enforcement officers said.

Devawn Mitchell, 23, was being held in the Lyon County Detention Center on $1 million bond after his arrest on Thursday. His first court appearance was scheduled for Monday.

Other charges against Mitchell include an alternative count of second-degree murder, aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and numerous fleeing and traffic charges.

An affidavit filed by police detective Kevin Shireman said the chase began Thursday when Mitchell swerved at a marked patrol car, forcing the officer to take evasive action to avoid a collision. Officers tracked Mitchell but broke off two pursuits because he was speeding and running stop signs on city streets, the affidavit said.

Eventually, Mitchell rear-ended a pickup truck, which went airborne and hit a power pole, police said. The pickup's driver, Steven Henry, 64, of Emporia, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mitchell was treated at Newman Regional Health and then taken to the Lyon County Detention Center.

LYON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Thursday in Lyon County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Honda Civic driven by DeVawn T. Mitchell, 23, Emporia,&nbsp;was eastbound on 6th Avenue at Chestnut in the left lane.&nbsp;

The Honda was fleeing law enforcement and rear-ended a 2009 Ford F150 driven by Steven A. Henry, 64, Emporia.

The pickup then struck a power pole and came to rest off the right side of the roadway.

Henry was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Roberts Blue Barnett funeral home. EMS transported Mitchell to&nbsp;Newman Regional Health Center. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616434591900.png" alt="Mitchell photo Lyon Co." />
 <figcaption>Mitchell photo Lyon Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>EMPORIA, KAN. (AP) — A Kansas man was charged with first-degree murder and more than 25 other counts after a fatal collision occurred while he was trying to flee from police, law enforcement officers said.Devawn Mitchell, 23, was being held in the Lyon County Detention Center on $1 million bond after his arrest on Thursday. His first court appearance was scheduled for Monday.Other charges against Mitchell include an alternative count of second-degree murder, aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and numerous fleeing and traffic charges.An affidavit filed by police detective Kevin Shireman said the chase began Thursday when Mitchell swerved at a marked patrol car, forcing the officer to take evasive action to avoid a collision. Officers tracked Mitchell but broke off two pursuits because he was speeding and running stop signs on city streets, the affidavit said.Eventually, Mitchell rear-ended a pickup truck, which went airborne and hit a power pole, police said. The pickup's driver, Steven Henry, 64, of Emporia, was pronounced dead at the scene.Mitchell was treated at Newman Regional Health and then taken to the Lyon County Detention Center.--------LYON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Thursday in Lyon County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Honda Civic driven by DeVawn T. Mitchell, 23, Emporia,&nbsp;was eastbound on 6th Avenue at Chestnut in the left lane.&nbsp;The Honda was fleeing law enforcement and rear-ended a 2009 Ford F150 driven by Steven A. Henry, 64, Emporia.The pickup then struck a power pole and came to rest off the right side of the roadway.Henry was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Roberts Blue Barnett funeral home. EMS transported Mitchell to&nbsp;Newman Regional Health Center. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

Murder: Kan. man charged for crash during police chase

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery and have made two arrests.

Just before 6a.m. Monday, Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office Deputies responded to a report of an Armed Robbery in progress at the Short Stop convenience store, 101 South Highway 99 in Westmoreland, according to a media release.

Detectives were able to identify both subjects involved in the Armed Robbery. 

Later Monday, deputies arrested Khoavun Raymond George, 21, of Manhattan in the 15000 block of Rock Creek Road, rural Westmoreland on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery.

On Tuesday, deputies arrested Donovan J. OConnell, 19, of Manhattan, in the 100 block of East Poyntz, Manhattan, Pottawatomie County, Kansas on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery. 

Both individuals are currently confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail awaiting bond. 

Detectives continue to investigate the incident and there may be additional charges. Deputies have also located and seized the blue passenger car used in the robbery.&nbsp; The Kansas Highway Patrol and Riley County Police Department assisted in the investigation.

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery and searching for two suspects.

&nbsp; Just before 6a.m. Monday, Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office Deputies responded to a report of an Armed Robbery in progress at the Short Stop convenience store, 101 South Highway 99 in Westmoreland, according to a media release.

&nbsp;Deputies arriving on scene learned that an individual had entered the store and displayed a firearm at the store clerk and demanded money. The suspect left the store with an undetermined amount of money and merchandise. During the incident no injuries were reported. 

The suspect is believed to have fled the scene with another person in a blue passenger car with a black painted hood and black painted roof. The vehicle is missing its front bumper, has custom wheels and has a wing on the rear of the car. If you locate a vehicle you think may match this description, please contact the sheriff's office or your local law enforcement agency and don't attempt to make contact with the vehicle or occupants. 

Deputies and Detectives are actively working the case and anyone with information on this crime are encouraged to contact the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office at 785-457-3353 for Captain Darrin Stewart or you may leave a tip via our Crimestoppers link at <a href="http://www.ptsheriff.com/?fbclid=IwAR1jf8U042i7asCv7_rIH2JittMCgMzaB8Qx0mLtL8ANpaD6j9MRdVeyKaM" target="_blank">www.ptsheriff.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616533102326.png" alt="Two suspects are in custody following the Monday armed robbery -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Two suspects are in custody following the Monday armed robbery -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery and have made two arrests.Just before 6a.m. Monday, Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office Deputies responded to a report of an Armed Robbery in progress at the Short Stop convenience store, 101 South Highway 99 in Westmoreland, according to a media release.Detectives were able to identify both subjects involved in the Armed Robbery. Later Monday, deputies arrested Khoavun Raymond George, 21, of Manhattan in the 15000 block of Rock Creek Road, rural Westmoreland on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery.On Tuesday, deputies arrested Donovan J. OConnell, 19, of Manhattan, in the 100 block of East Poyntz, Manhattan, Pottawatomie County, Kansas on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery. Both individuals are currently confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail awaiting bond. Detectives continue to investigate the incident and there may be additional charges. Deputies have also located and seized the blue passenger car used in the robbery.&nbsp; The Kansas Highway Patrol and Riley County Police Department assisted in the investigation.--------POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery and searching for two suspects.&nbsp; Just before 6a.m. Monday, Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office Deputies responded to a report of an Armed Robbery in progress at the Short Stop convenience store, 101 South Highway 99 in Westmoreland, according to a media release.&nbsp;Deputies arriving on scene learned that an individual had entered the store and displayed a firearm at the store clerk and demanded money. The suspect left the store with an undetermined amount of money and merchandise. During the incident no injuries were reported. The suspect is believed to have fled the scene with another person in a blue passenger car with a black painted hood and black painted roof. The vehicle is missing its front bumper, has custom wheels and has a wing on the rear of the car. If you locate a vehicle you think may match this description, please contact the sheriff's office or your local law enforcement agency and don't attempt to make contact with the vehicle or occupants. Deputies and Detectives are actively working the case and anyone with information on this crime are encouraged to contact the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office at 785-457-3353 for Captain Darrin Stewart or you may leave a tip via our Crimestoppers link at <a href="http://www.ptsheriff.com/?fbclid=IwAR1jf8U042i7asCv7_rIH2JittMCgMzaB8Qx0mLtL8ANpaD6j9MRdVeyKaM" target="_blank">www.ptsheriff.com.</a>

Deputies catch 2 suspects wanted for Kan. armed robbery

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities continue their investigation after mail with a toxic substance arrived at the Sedgwick County Court House Monday.

The Division of Finance employee who was exposed was released from the hospital and is recovering at home, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

 Three other county employees are experiencing minor symptoms from the incident but continue to work.

The employee brought the mail to her workstation on the eighth floor of the courthouse and began opening it. When opening one of the parcels addressed from the Moorish Nationale Republic Federale Gobernmete – Societas Republic ea al Maurikanos, she noticed an odor and a powdery substance located in the envelope. Within a short time, the employee began to experience respiratory issues and skin irritation.

Once county personnel were notified, they called the Wichita Fire Department and shut down ventilation on the eighth floor of the courthouse.

The employee experiencing respiratory issues was removed from the Finance office, decontaminated and transported to a local hospital for evaluation, according to Blick.

Three additional Finance employees, two Courthouse police officers and two Sheriff Deputies were also decontaminated as a precaution.

A Hazmat ID test determined the powdery substance in the envelope was diaminotoluene, according to Blick.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616503739315.png" alt="Hazmat crews from the Wichita Fire Department on the scene Monday afternoon -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Hazmat crews from the Wichita Fire Department on the scene Monday afternoon -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities continue their investigation after mail with a toxic substance arrived at the Sedgwick County Court House Monday.The Division of Finance employee who was exposed was released from the hospital and is recovering at home, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick. Three other county employees are experiencing minor symptoms from the incident but continue to work.The employee brought the mail to her workstation on the eighth floor of the courthouse and began opening it. When opening one of the parcels addressed from the Moorish Nationale Republic Federale Gobernmete – Societas Republic ea al Maurikanos, she noticed an odor and a powdery substance located in the envelope. Within a short time, the employee began to experience respiratory issues and skin irritation.Once county personnel were notified, they called the Wichita Fire Department and shut down ventilation on the eighth floor of the courthouse.The employee experiencing respiratory issues was removed from the Finance office, decontaminated and transported to a local hospital for evaluation, according to Blick.Three additional Finance employees, two Courthouse police officers and two Sheriff Deputies were also decontaminated as a precaution.A Hazmat ID test determined the powdery substance in the envelope was diaminotoluene, according to Blick.The Sheriff’s Office contacted the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force who responded. The Sheriff’s Office retained the parcel and is cooperating with the FBI in the investigation.-----SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating after mail with a toxic substance arrived at the Sedgwick County Court House.On Monday afternoon, an employee working in the Sedgwick County Division of Finance retrieved mail addressed to their department on the first floor of the Sedgwick County Courthouse, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.The employee brought the mail to her workstation on the eighth floor of the courthouse and began opening it. When opening one of the parcels she noticed an odor and a powdery substance located in the envelope. Within a short time, the employee began to experience respiratory issues and skin irritation.Once county personnel were notified, they called the Wichita Fire Department and shut down ventilation on the eighth floor of the courthouse. The employee experiencing respiratory issues was removed from the Finance office, decontaminated and transported to a local hospital for evaluation, according to Blick.Three additional Finance employees, two Courthouse police officers and two Sheriff Deputies were also decontaminated as a precaution.A Hazmat ID test determined the powdery substance in the envelope was diaminotoluene, according to Blick.The Sheriff’s Office contacted the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force who responded. The Sheriff’s Office retained the parcel and is cooperating with the FBI in the investigation.

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